GOP state Senator Rick Bertrand announced Thursday he will run for Iowa's Fourth Congressional District.

"I am running for Congress because this is about launching a new economic vision. A vision focused on us, Iowans. A vision that expands and solidifies our agricultural standing in the world. A vision that proudly understand and embraces our renewable fuels industry," said Bertrand in a news release.

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"Over the past several weeks I have traveled extensively throughout 39 counties visiting with Fourth District residents who are ready for a fresh, Iowa-focused vision and positive reset opportunities for Iowa ideas. Growing up on a farm in Woodbury County and working as a commercial developer in Sioux City, I know first hand the needs of Iowa’s Fourth District and plan to take this knowledge and Iowa values to Washington, D.C.," Bertrand said.

Bertrand was elected to the Iowa Senate in 2010 and was re-elected in 2014.

The seat has been held since 2003 by Steve King, 66, who he is expected to face in the primary.